Terms of Moore's new contract were not immediately known, but the Dolphins confirmed the news of both signings on Friday.

It's smart work by general manager Jeff Ireland. Moore widely was considered the top quarterback in a thin NFL free-agent market and likely would have been courted by multiple teams. Moore wants to be a starter, but he's comfortable with the Dolphins and close friends with second-year quarterback Ryan Tannehill.

Moore was a gritty performer in 2011, starting 12 games for the Dolphins and earning team MVP honors. His camp must have known there wouldn't be major money coming his way on the open market, but he's certain to become one of the NFL's highest-paid backups with the Dolphins.

Another wise move by the Dolphins with the launch of free agency just days away.